Aspartylglucosaminuria: AGA Gene Sequencing

Condition Description

Aspartylglucosaminuria (AGU) is a disorder of glycoprotein degradation caused by defective activity of the aspartylglucosaminidase enzyme. Mutations in the AGA gene (4q32-q33) cause AGU, which is inherited as an autosomal recessive disorder. Features of AGU include progressive intellectual disability, characteristic facial features and body structure (i.e. microcephaly, coarse facies, low nasal bridge, macroglossia, and delayed skeletal maturation), recurrent childhood respiratory tract infections, psychiatric problems during adolescence, seizures, chronic arthritis, and osteoporosis. Additionally, individuals with AGU have a shortened life expectancy, usually less than 50 years.

Genes (1)

Indications

This test is indicated for:

Confirmation of a clinical diagnosis of aspartylglucosaminuria.

Carrier testing in adults with a family history of aspartylglucosaminuria.

Methodology

PCR amplification of 9 exons contained in the AGA gene is performed on the patient's genomic DNA. Direct sequencing of amplification products is performed in both forward and reverse directions, using automated fluorescence dideoxy sequencing methods. The patient's gene sequences are then compared to a normal reference sequence. Sequence variations are classified as mutations, benign variants unrelated to disease, or variations of unknown clinical significance. Variants of unknown clinical significance may require further studies of the patient and/or family members. This assay does not interrogate the promoter region, deep intronic regions, or other regulatory elements, and does not detect large deletions.

Detection

Clinical Sensitivity: Unknown. Mutations in the promoter region, some mutations in the introns and other regulatory element mutations cannot be detected by this analysis. Large deletions will not be detected by this analysis. Results of molecular analysis should be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical and/or biochemical phenotype.

Type: Whole Blood

Specimen Collection and Shipping: Refrigerate until time of shipment. Ship sample within 5 days of collection at room temperature with overnight delivery.

Type: Saliva

Specimen Requirements:

OrageneTM Saliva Collection kit (available through EGL) used according to manufacturer instructions.

Specimen Collection and Shipping: Store sample at room temperature. Ship sample within 5 days of collection at room temperature with overnight delivery.

Special Instructions

Submit copies of diagnostic biochemical test results with the sample, if appropriate. Contact the laboratory if further information is needed.

Related Tests

Custom diagnostic mutation analysis (KM) is available to family members if mutations are identified by targeted mutation testing or sequencing analysis.

Prenatal testing is available only for known familial mutations to individuals who are confirmed carriers of mutations. Please contact the laboratory genetic counselor to discuss appropriate testing prior to collecting a prenatal specimen.